What happened on the night the young Great War hero, Maurice Tabret, died at home in his bed? His doctor says he died from natural causes, but his nurse points a finger of suspicion at his beautiful wife, Stella...

Putting a twist on the classic murder mystery, this part thriller, part love story is by the enduringly popular playwright and novelist, W. Somerset Maugham, whose brilliance is discovered afresh in this vivid new production. This tense and graceful play is a fascinating exploration of love, devotion and family.

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Latest Reviews

Through excellent direction from Matthew Dunster and splendid design from Anna Fleischle, Maugham’s work is showcased beautifully; with small moments of comedy giving light relief to the otherwise dramatic and quite often poignant dialogue... Excellent performances are given from all the cast... stunning.

This was a brilliantly acted and directed piece that took us into the constraints of the subject and the time it was set, evoking the period beautifully with good use of dialogue and costumes... A brilliant example of the well made play, it was good to see such an intelligent production.

A fascinating character study which Maugham has written with great skill and is played with great vitality by the cast who keep things moving at an incredible speed... English Touring Theatre has indeed brought new life to a classic... an engaging lesson in relationships and the true importance of love in all its forms.

English Touring Theatre is defined by the quality of the plays it produces with class and enigmatic humour. The Sacred Flame is no exception, with smart direction, a gorgeous set and a cast of class, of posture and deliberate articulation. This play by the late Somerset Maugham is done marvellous justice.